The Old Railway Cafe

The Old Railway Cafe sits at Shop 2, 520 Flinders Street, in the Railway Estate end of Townsville City near the historic old railway station and the CQUni campus. It is a relaxed, mostly alfresco cafe with a big outdoor dining area, which makes it one of the easier city breakfasts to bring a dog along to.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the alfresco tables, which open straight onto Flinders Street so you can settle your dog without navigating an indoor room. Shady outdoor seating keeps everyone comfortable as the day warms, and it is a popular stop after a city walk. Water bowls are not guaranteed, so pack a travel bowl. Keep your dog on lead and tucked beside the table, as the footpath sees foot traffic.

Worth knowing

The food is hearty and portions are generous: bacon and egg rolls, all-day breakfast plates, smashed avo, bagels and toasties, then gourmet burgers, quiche, lasagne and salads for lunch. Milkshakes get a regular mention alongside the coffee, and there is a rotating cabinet of homemade cakes. Hours run 6:30am to 2pm on weekdays, with shorter weekend service, so check the cafe's Facebook page before a Sunday visit.

Getting there and parking

Street parking runs along Flinders Street, though this stretch is busy, so check signage. The cafe is within walking distance of the city centre and pairs naturally with the Ross Creek pathways for an on-lead leg stretch before or after breakfast.

Max: Bacon and egg roll by the old railway line, then a splash in the creek. This town understands priorities.

Close by with the dogs

National Park Fenced Dog Park in Railway Estate is a short hop away for an off-lead run, and Little Brick Road Espresso on the same side of town is a good second coffee. For something bigger, Pallarenda Dog Beach lets dogs run on the sand a short drive north. In the CBD itself, The Beet Bar and Mt. Joy Cafe are proven dog-friendly alternatives.

Browse National Park Fenced Dog Park and Pallarenda Dog Beach for the off-lead options, see more dog friendly cafes in QLD, or plan around Townsville City. Keep dogs clear of the water's edge on tidal creeks and confirm cafe pet policy at the door.